Charities tell MPs to reform benefits

A more flexible and simplified benefits system that allows people
with mental health problems to work part time would help sufferers
back into work, mental health charities have told MPs.

Rethink told a House of Commons select committee that the benefit
system should allow those with mental health problems to take
gradual steps into work without automatically losing benefits.

The Mental After Care Association said in its evidence that people
suffering from mental illness wanted to work but were worried about
losing the security of their benefits.

It also called for resources to combat employers’ doubts about the
ability of people with mental health problems to work. It said
these could be in the form of financial incentives, such as meeting
training costs.

The submissions were part of the work and pensions select
committee’s inquiry into how to help disabled people into work.